Military families get a free pass for federal lands

Federal land managers are offering a perk for active duty military members and their families.

Beginning Saturday, which is Armed Forces Day, the National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management will begin issuing free annual passes for military families.

The military version of the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass will permit free entrance to sites managed by the BLM, National Park Service, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the U.S. Forest Service.

Active duty members of the armed forces can pick up their passes at field offices, visitor centers and entrance stations. They must show a current, valid military identification card.
The pass, which normally costs $80, does not cover the cost of camping, boat launching or other special fees.

“Through the years, military members, especially those far from home in times of conflict, have found inspiration in America’s patriotic icons and majestic landscapes, places like the Statue of Liberty and the Grand Canyon that are cared for by the National Park Service and symbolize the nation that their sacrifices protect,” National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis said in a statement.

“This new pass is a way to thank military members and their families for their service and their sacrifices,” Utah State BLM Director Juan Palma said in a separate release.

“We all owe a debt to those who sacrifice so much to protect our country,” said Bryce Canyon National Park Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh.